Knuckle replacement

Original Article:  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/medical/IM03205
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Knuckle replacement

Photograph showing rheumatoid arthritis of the knuckles in one hand and another hand that has undergone knuckle replacement surgery

Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the joints in the fingers, as shown in the hand on the left side of the image. Years of joint damage can leave hands deformed and unusable. The hand on the right side of the image has undergone knuckle replacement surgery. Surgery can dramatically improve the appearance and function of the hand and fingers. However, surgery carries risks, and knuckle replacement surgery may make it impossible to close your hand, such as to make a fist.

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IM03205

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